Alberta Métis Cultural Loss and Non-Market Valuation Analysis

EPI was commissioned by the Métis Settlements of Paddle Prairie, Peavine, Gift Lake, and Kikino to conduct value analyses in order to determine net compensatory losses resulting from surface disturbances caused by ongoing petroleum development activity. EPI employed a broad range of research and analysis techniques, including community engagement, scientific field research and traditional use and oral history research to evaluate on-going impacts and cumulative effects of petroleum operations, to many important traditional environmental and cultural values. Research and professional analysis were used to develop the direct economic values (such as timber damage assessments) while non-market values were supported by oral histories from Elders, maps and historical research. Specific Métis values affected by petroleum development were elicited from members and structured in a hierarchy in order to be analyzed. The results of this value analysis clearly identified that past and current compensation levels dramatically under-valued the losses incurred by the Métis Settlements.